Music has always been a part of my life -- now welcome to the journey. Just a little blog to reminisce, review, rant and rave about the music in my life. "Music is my mother and my father. It is my work and my rest,my blood, my compass, my love" ~Jeff Buckley

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

October 14, 1985 was the release date of INXS's fifth album, Listen Like Thieves. It was the final album of their worldwide obscurity. While in Australia, they were already sensational superstars, songs like What You Need would finally begin to trickle over to the US. Let's take a look at what made Thieves a classic. What You NeedThis song was made famous in the US because of its groundbreaking and award winning video. The rotoscope animation technique gave What You Need a new wave feel and added the pop animation that 80's music fans were feeling entitled to. Kirk Pengilly's sax riff and Michael Hutchence's sultry voice was a glimpse at what the future INXS would give us.

Listen Like ThievesSadly, not many know this gorgeous cinematic video, Mad Maxian video. And strangely enough, the apocalyptic montage fits the song well. Again, the future and static INXS sound is solidified in this song.

You are all you need So don't hesitate There's no time to waste You just do it for yourself

Kiss the Dirt (Falling Down the Mountain)The video for this song should be an Australian travel commercial. The red sand desert, the blazing sun, and the gigantic fire the backlights the band are the perfect backdrop for the Australian proud band. It's a song about love, getting hurt, and doing it all over again.

Shine Like it DoesIf there is one thing about INXS lyrics, it is that they are very simple, but hard hitting and true. Shine Like It Does is no exception.Made up of not even twenty lines, its message is simple: do your best.

Good Times + Bad TimesThis one is more reminiscent of the bands previous album, The Swing. While not a huge hit, it was resurrected with Australian singer, Jimmy Barnes.

Biting BulletsAnother hidden gem in the lyric library of INXS. This song is full of symbolism and metaphors set to a toe tapping 80's rhythm.

I loose myself like anybody else But I'm not so strong to make it in the end I need some answers when The day comes crashing down But it's all over when there's No one to be found

﻿

This TimeLots of love songs on this album. A song about love, loss, and finding each other again.

We are hoping - yes we are praying

This time will be the last time

That we will fight like this

Same DirectionLove, love, love. This love song has the beat of a march off to the war of love. One + OneLots of saxophone and more love, and promises to be there through the night, if you know what I mean. Michael's troubadour is definitely in full swing in this song.

Red SunA fitting final song of the album. It's an amalgam of the old and the new and a perfect segue into KICK.